Principal of North Wake College and Career Academy dies

North Wake College & Career Academy in Wake Forest was closed Tuesday after the death of Dr. Elizabeth Battle, the school's principal.

Battle died Monday, according to a message sent to parents from the school's assistant principal, Chanin Lacy-Garner. The cause of death was not shared.

"Our condolences, thoughts and prayers go out to her family and friends. Please keep them and all of those that have been impacted by this loss in your hearts. We want to honor the family and be respectful of their need for privacy at this time," Lacy-Garner wrote.

All classes and extracurricular activities were canceled on Tuesday.

The school recommended Transitions GriefCare for free community services to help students navigate feelings of loss and Alliance Health for further counseling and therapeutic services. Alliance has a crisis line that is available 24 hours, 7 days a week: 1-877-233-4617.

According to the Wake County Public School System, Battle had worked at North Wake College & Career Academy since 2017.

Battle received her bachelors degree from Meredith College and her doctor of education and masters degrees from North Carolina State University. She had experience as a principal, assistant principal and marketing teacher before joining North Wake College & Career Academy.

On Tuesday a parent of a North Wake senior emailed WRAL News, writing, "Please know that Dr. Elizabeth Battle was an amazing and caring person and principal at North Wake College and Career Academy. My student and I are devastated. This is a small school with an incredible staff."

According to the parent, only around 400 students attend the career-focused academy.

A memorial service for Battle will be held Sunday at 2 p.m. at West Raleigh Presbyterian Church at 27 Horne Street in Raleigh.